RUSC MAILING

Written by Ned Norris

As the sun sets on another day, I sit back with a cup of coffee and reflect on the milestone we mark this year—the 80th anniversary of VJ Day! It’s quite the poignant occasion, don’t you think? On that fateful day, September 2, 1945, President Harry S. Truman declared the formal end of World War II, bringing a long and arduous chapter to a close for the Allied nations.

Now, while many of us think of the surrender itself taking place on August 15, the true weight of that day in September reminds us of the relief and reflection that washed over the world. The aftermath of such a monumental conflict sparked a wave of stories—narratives that captured the human experience, the shifting landscape, and the ethical dilemmas posed by war and technology.

One such tale that always intrigues me is the short-lived radio drama, The Fifth Horseman, which aired in 1946. This fascinating series arrived shortly after the staggering events in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, attempting to tackle the moral questions raised by the scourge of nuclear warfare. Though it ran for but a brief time, its impact resonated deeply, engaging audiences with conversations around the anxieties of the atomic age and the weight of responsibility that comes with great power.

The title itself is quite evocative, calling to mind the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, with the Fifth representing the chilling shadow of nuclear threat looming over humanity. The narratives shared by this series encouraged listeners to ponder not just the destruction possible from atomic weapons, but also the moral crossroads we find ourselves at in our pursuit of peace in a chaotic world.

Today, as we honor the sacrifices made during World War II, let's also acknowledge and engage with the artistic expressions born from that tumultuous era. They remind us that the past is never truly behind us; it informs our choices and obligations toward those who will follow in our footsteps.

I’m excited to share that we have all 8 episodes of The Fifth Horseman, and I’ll be adding them throughout the week. I invite you to tune in, reflect, and join me in this journey through the stories that shaped our history—and continue to resonate today.

Happy listening my friend, and oh, enjoy the Labor Day holiday this Monday.

Warmly,

RUSC Old Time Radio
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